With roots going as far back as 1924, CIMIER has been a celebrated name for decades. The brand has always desired to share its passion for mechanical watchmaking and, as the marque approaches its landmark 100th anniversary, this opportunity is available at the Watch Academy by CIMIER in Biel, Switzerland, where aficionados can discover the secrets of watchmaking know-how and step in the shoes of a watchmaker for a day
In 1924, the watchmaker Joseph Lapanouse founded his company Lapanouse SA in Hölstein, Switzerland, and began selling his watches under the brand name CIMIER. He quickly specialised in making watches similar to the “Prolétaire”, the robust, accurate and affordable timepiece invented by the famous German watchmaker Georges-Frédéric Roskopf. Manufactured on an industrial scale, the “Roskopf” watch would become Switzerland’s most exported movement.
In the 1960s, CIMIER’s most popular product was the so-called “faux chronograph” (false chronograph), a watch that allowed the user to start and stop the seconds hand without the function of resetting the hand to zero through a pusher. This timepiece allowed many consumers to acquire a chronograph-style watch at an affordable price. In the 1970s, the company employed more than 500 people in Switzerland, and its annual production totalled 1.5 million timepieces.
Watchmaker for a day
Now operating under the umbrella of the QI group, Montres CIMIER SA is a well-established and independent watchmaker, perpetuating the art and tradition of Swiss watchmaking. Its timepieces are designed, developed, and manufactured by experts and are synonymous with high-quality workmanship.
With the Watch Academy, aficionados get a chance to discover the secrets of mechanical watchmaking. Combining theory and practice, this original, interactive horological experience offers participants the possibility to customise and assemble their own mechanical watch under the guidance of master watchmakers. This fun and educational concept of discovery and personalisation truly stands out in an industry that often struggles to offer watches that reveal a person’s true personality.
Created over 10 years ago, this unique and innovative concept brings together a set of values including sharing Swiss watchmaking culture, fostering a community of enthusiasts, and the product that excels through its quality, its finishes, and its emotional dimension. Sessions are held in Biel, in brand new premises where CIMIER is headquartered. Some workshops are sometimes organised in other cities and countries, in particular for groups or companies.
The “introduction course” combines theory and practice. After acquiring basic watchmaking knowledge, participants have the opportunity to practice and to assemble a functioning Swiss mechanical movement.
Watch Academy participants can also assemble their own personalised watch. Three different base models are available: the Royal Skeleton, the Petite Seconde, and the Big Matic. Once the watch model is selected, each participant has a wide choice of samples to choose from to personalise their watch: case colour, dial, hands, strap, and buckle. To add another personal touch, the case back glass can also be engraved.
After putting on a watchmaker’s coat, it is time to head to the workshop to proceed to the step-by-step assembly of the watch under the supervision of a watchmaker. Despite a couple of delicate operations, the workshop is perfectly manageable, even for beginners. No prior skills are required. And most importantly, it is extremely rewarding to leave the workshop with a watch that you have assembled with your own hands – time well spent indeed.
CIMIER watches
Petite Seconde
A classic with a twist, the Petite Seconde by CIMIER has its crown at 4 o’clock and its small seconds tilted by some 30°. From the office into your everyday life, it is perfect for every occasion.
Big Matic
For the Big Matic, the CIMIER watchmakers have converted the legendary ETA 6497 calibre into an exclusive automatic movement.
Royal Skeleton
Presented in a 43mm case, the Royal Skeleton by CIMIER stands out with its openworked design, providing a breathtaking insight into its beating heart.
